What is the typical outcome for infants with neonatal varicella regarding mortality?

Infants who develop neonatal varicella, which occurs when a mother has varicella (chickenpox) around the time of delivery, face significant health risks. The correct answer indicates a 20% mortality rate, which reflects the serious implications of this condition.

Neonatal varicella is particularly concerning because it can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and disseminated infection, particularly in infants who are less than a month old. The mortality rate is significantly higher in infants who are born to mothers who develop varicella in the late stages of pregnancy, especially within a few days before delivery or immediately after delivery, due to their lack of passive immunity.

The other stated mortality rates suggest an underestimation of the risks associated with this condition. There are documented cases and studies that establish the 20% mortality rate as a more accurate reflection of the potential outcomes for infants affected by neonatal varicella. Hence, while it is of utmost importance to prevent maternal varicella through vaccination and effective management of exposure, understanding the mortality risk is crucial for clinical practice and guiding patient care in the context of pregnancy and neonatal health.